What Are Independent Living Communities?

Posted: May 15, 2024

Independent living communities foster an environment of freedom, enrichment, and community for older adults. When you choose an independent living community, you won’t have to take on cooking, lawn maintenance or household chores, unless you choose to. From exercise classes and clubs to excursions to fun destinations, residents of independent living communities will find various opportunities to stay active and enjoy a purpose-filled retirement.

Designed to function and feel like private homes, independent living communities also provide plenty of exciting amenities. Learn about independent living, the benefits of these communities and other essential aspects if you are considering a move.

What Is Independent Living for Seniors?

Independent living is similar to other forms of living, though these communities are typically reserved for older adults. Independent living communities may include townhomes, single-family homes or cottages, or apartment homes.

Independent living communities are a type of residential living for older adults who do not require medical care and are looking for an active, vibrant lifestyle among a strong community of peers and friends. These residences provide convenient access to services such as dining, entertainment, fitness centers, and more. Some even have onsite medical clinics for primary care needs. They are often located near shopping, parks, grocery stores, restaurants, medical centers, and fun local attractions to accommodate an active lifestyle.

What Are the Benefits of Independent Living Communities?

Aside from a wide range of amenities, older adults can appreciate several benefits when they choose an independent living community:

1. All-inclusive: When older adults move into an independent living community, they can say goodbye to household bills. Mortgage payments, property taxes, groceries, and entertainment are replaced with one monthly fee that includes utility costs, housekeeping, and enrichment events. Most independent living communities offer dining plans as well. Residents usually only pay for their phone or internet bill, making these communities more cost-effective than one may expect.
2. Security: With a secured neighborhood protected by 24/7 surveillance and well-lit areas, independent living communities prioritize the safety of all residents.
3. Physical fitness: Exercise is an essential aspect of healthy aging. That’s why independent living communities provide an array of fitness classes to help promote a healthy, happy lifestyle.
4. Nutrition: Daily nutritious, gourmet foods are among the excellent amenities provided at independent living communities. Residents can choose from various freshly prepared foods with dietary needs accommodated.
5. Staff: From transportation and concierge services to housekeeping and life enrichment, residents have a well-trained team of staff available when they live in an independent living community.
6. Social connections: While these communities offer plenty of privacy for all residents, social engagement is one of the most significant independent living benefits. Residents can appreciate meaningful social connections made between peers and staff. A focus on citizenship and community fosters belonging and purpose for all members of the community.

How Old Do You Have to Be for Senior Independent Living?

Independent living communities cater to those searching for a lifestyle centered around new friendships, less maintenance, and continued opportunities for growth and learning. Generally, these communities will provide a lifestyle suitable for a wide variety of ages, from their 60s and beyond. There is no upper age limit. At Holly Creek, older adults at least 62 years of age can take advantage of our community’s vibrant, active and social environment.

Should your health needs change in the future and you find you would benefit from support with activities of daily living or require medical care, many independent living communities offer a continuum of care. For example, as a Life Plan Community, Holly Creek is able to provide residents of our independent living community access to assisted living, memory support, short-term rehabilitation, and long-term skilled nursing care. Joining an independent living community earlier means you have greater peace of mind about the future, as you’ll have more opportunity to know and be known by your neighbors and team members should your care needs change over time.

When to Consider an Independent Living Community

If you crave an active, independent, and low-maintenance lifestyle, you may want to consider an independent living community for yourself.

When entering retirement, many adults look for new opportunities and ways to enjoy their free time, from spending quality time with family members to rediscovering a hobby or seeking out a new one. It may be time to consider independent living if:

• You are wanting to downsize: Maintaining a home can be a lot of work — especially as we age. If you are continually overwhelmed by household responsibilities, you may seek an independent living community as an opportunity to downsize and start a new chapter of life.
• You’d like to make more social connections: Relationships with family and friends are essential in all stages of life, and older adulthood is no exception. These connections have a measurable, positive impact on our health and overall quality of life. Independent living communities provide plenty of opportunities for you to meet new people and build or strengthen your social network in retirement. And less time spent on household chores, traveling for groceries, meal prep, and other daily tasks means more time spent with those you love.
• You are looking for more excitement: With more free time, older adults might seek a more exciting, active lifestyle that brings them meaning and purpose. Independent living communities offer enjoyable activities, movie nights, book clubs, volunteer opportunities, exercise and fitness classes, lecture and live music series, and more – many of which are resident-led.

How Much Does Independent Living Cost?

The cost of independent living varies based on individual communities’ pricing structures, your location preference, and your desired amenities and home size. Life Plan and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) likely require an entrance fee. However, they may be up to 90% refundable when the adult moves out. Older adults also pay a monthly fee similar to a rent payment that covers room and board, housekeeping, dining, transportation and more.

About Holly Creek Life Plan Community

Older adults of all ages can appreciate what independent living has to offer. From swimming pools to movie theaters, happy hours, events, and more, you’ll find these communities can help foster an environment of creativity, fun and sociability not always found in the greater community.

Holly Creek is a non-profit, independent living community for active adults. Situated on 17 acres of gorgeous trails and parks, older adults find plenty of enrichment opportunities to help them stay happy, healthy, and active into their retirement years. We also provide assisted living, memory support, and health suites so older adults can join the community with peace of mind about the future.

To learn more about our apartments and cottages, contact us today.